In daily life, it is sometimes hard to find time to enjoy the 'finer' things. This is why a select group of cadets decided to form The International Ballroom Dance Club (IBDC).

The United States Coast Guard Academy prides itself in the development of young leaders. Our service demands that cadets devote time to actively develop their professional relationships within the CG community. Intelligence, integrity, strength, courage, and the simple yet imperative social graces are required skills in order for anyone to be successful. The CGA International Ballroom Dance Club (IBDC) not only provides cadets with an opportunity to represent the Academy positively in the New England community; it does so in an enjoyable, yet rigorous environment. The IBDC started out small and was largely focused on swing dance. With the growing popularity of the more formal ballroom dancing among colleges all over the nation and exposure to ballroom dancing by television shows such as “Dancing with the Stars” many cadets expressed the desire to expand their footwork skills to include other complicated dances.

With Dr. Zapalska’s (Professor of Economics and the IBDC advisor and coach) dance background, passion for art, and wonderful teaching style to guide them, for the last ten years the CGA cadets have been developing proficiency for an art that builds confidence, poise and grace. As more cadets learn about the fun, the club continues to grow. From an initial handful of cadets, club membership is now at nearly one hundred and twenty.

Community Dances are hosted by the USCGA International Ballroom Dance Club and are free and open to the CGA community and the public.

Lesson: 6:30-8 p.m. with Greg Duda*Dance: 8-10 p.m.

2015 Spring Semester Schedule(subject to change)

Friday, Friday, March 20th:Tango

This first community dance in Spring 2015 semester is being dedicated in memory of two cadets 1/c Soso Makaridze and 3/c Besarion Gorjoladze. Both cadets enjoyed dancing and Tango was their enjoyable music and dance. Therefore, the Tango lesson will be taught by Greg Duda from 1830-2000 with dancing to follow from 2000-2200.

After lesson the 2015 Cadet Brass Ensemble will be playing dance music for your enjoyment with general dancing from 2030-2130. Please join us to remember those two outstanding cadets who tragically lost their lives last week.

2015 Cadet Brass Ensemble has been operating under leadership of 3/c William Glick. The members of the 2015 Cadet Brass Ensemble include: